Moscow, 15 August (RFE/RL) - Russian rescuers have resumed efforts to lower a pressurized capsule to a stranded nuclear submarine on the floor of the Barents Sea after a first attempt failed due to stormy weather. The capsule is to be clamped to the top of the sub in which 116 people are trapped. It should take six hours to complete. Rescuers then hope to relay survivors to the surface. The procedure is complicated by rough seas and the shifting of the submarine caused by strong underwater currents.
Russian officials say they have little idea of conditions inside the submarine. But they have been able to hear coded tapping by some of the crewmen, indicating they are alive.
The vessel lost power and sank to the sea bottom during training exercises over the weekend for reasons still unknown.
The vessel lost power and sank to the sea bottom during training exercises over the weekend for reasons still unknown.